Jensen Revives Interceptor Name with 960-HP Track Prototype

Key points

• The new Interceptor GTX is a track-only prototype featuring a supercharged 6.8-liter GM-based V8 engine that produces 960 horsepower and can be tuned up to 1,200 horsepower.
• The vehicle utilizes a six-speed sequential manual transmission, an aluminum chassis, and race-grade components including AP Racing brakes and Nitron dampers, with a curb weight of approximately 3,637 pounds.
• Jensen International’s Managing Director David Duerden describes the GTX as an 'enhanced prototype' designed to validate engineering and design before committing to road-legal production.
• Future plans include two road-legal variants: the performance-focused GTR and the luxury-oriented GT, both expected to cost over $2 million, though production depends on customer demand.
• The project involves key partners including Avant Design for styling, Late Model Engines for the powertrain, and Jeff Qvale, whose father helped establish the Jensen-Healey brand in the 1970s.

Background

The original Jensen Interceptor was produced from 1966 to 1976, with approximately 6,400 units built. It was known for its distinctive styling and use of American V8 engines, including Chrysler big-blocks. Jensen International Automotive has spent the last 16 years restoring and rebuilding classic Interceptors, but the company has now pivoted to new development to sustain its business.

How outlets are covering it

Supercar Blondie emphasizes the historical significance of the name and the shift from a classic British icon to a modern supercar, noting the absence of a listed price. MotorTrend provides the most technical detail, highlighting the aluminum chassis choice over carbon fiber for cost and modularity, and noting the front-end design resembles a Chevrolet Camaro. Motor1 focuses on the powertrain specifics, noting that less than 20% of the engine parts are original GM components, and frames the car as a serious entry into the high-performance market. All sources agree that the GTX is a prototype intended to gauge interest before full production of road-legal models begins.

Why it matters

The launch of the Interceptor GTX signals a potential revival of the Jensen brand in the ultra-luxury segment. If successful, it could introduce a new generation of hand-built British sports cars that blend classic heritage with modern high-performance engineering, challenging established luxury marques with a unique V8-powered alternative.

What to watch

Jensen will continue testing the GTX prototype and seek customer interest to justify the development of the road-legal GTR and GT models. The company has not announced specific production dates or final pricing for the road-legal versions, which are expected to exceed $2 million. The success of the GTX as a proof of concept will determine whether the full lineup moves forward.